Helicopter

Definition

Helicopter is a noun that refers to an aircraft with horizontally spinning rotors that enable it to take off and land vertically, hover, and move in any direction. As a verb, it means to transport by helicopter or to hover like a helicopter.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɛlɪˌkɑːptər/
• Respelling: HEL-i-kop-ter

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɛlɪˌkɒptə/
• Respelling: HEL-i-kop-tuh

Etymology

The word "helicopter" originates from the French "hélicoptère," which is derived from the Greek words "helix" (spiral) and "pteron" (wing). Coined in the mid-19th century, it describes the spiral-winged design of the aircraft.

Derivatives

• Helicoptering (verb/noun)
• Helipad (noun)
• Helicopter-like (adjective)
• Helicoptering parent (noun, informal)
• Rotorcraft (noun)

Synonyms

• Chopper
• Rotorcraft
• Whirlybird

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "helicopter" is used in aviation and informal contexts. For example, "The helicopter landed on the rooftop helipad," or "She was helicoptered to the hospital after the accident."

Related Terms

• Aircraft: A machine capable of flight.
• Rotor: The spinning blade system of a helicopter.
• Vertical lift: The ability to ascend and descend vertically.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An aircraft with horizontally spinning rotors: Used for vertical takeoff and landing, hovering, and maneuvering.
  • Example: "The rescue team arrived in a helicopter."
• A term in informal contexts: Can describe specific designs or styles related to helicopters.
  • Example: "The child’s toy was a miniature helicopter."

Verb

• To transport by helicopter: Refers to moving something or someone using a helicopter.
  • Example: "The injured climbers were helicoptered to safety."
• To hover or move like a helicopter: Indicates hovering motion, often metaphorical.
  • Example: "The drone helicoptered above the crowd."